Michael Jackson’s Estate Slams Sexyy Red’s ‘Beat It’ Remix — Unauthorized Use Sparks Backlash

Michael Jackson’s estate has sharply criticized rapper Sexyy Red after footage surfaced of her in the studio performing a bawdy twist on the King of Pop’s legendary 1983 hit “Beat It.” The viral clip shows Sexyy Red rapping over the iconic track with markedly explicit lyrics, igniting intense conversation online — and drawing an official response from Jackson’s representatives.

In a statement circulated through music industry outlets, a spokesperson for the Michael Jackson estate made it clear the performance was unauthorized and not sanctioned by the estate.

“We were totally unaware of this,” the spokesperson said, adding the use of the original music in the viral footage was not permitted.

The footage initially spread on social media after fellow rapper Lil Yachty shared a preview from the studio, joking that it was a “sneak peek scene of the new Michael biopic.” In the clip, Sexyy Red teases a version of “Beat It” she dubs “Just Eat It,” flipping the chorus into highly suggestive verses.

I genuinely thought she just high & put an instrumental of it on to freestyle with as a joke, and was never seriously putting this out or making this a song?

— The real is back🤷🏾‍♀️. (@ItsMimaMonopoly) February 12, 2026

The reaction has been polarizing. Some fans found humor in the remix and praised Sexyy Red’s boldness, while others — including longtime Michael Jackson enthusiasts — expressed frustration and disappointment over the reinterpretation of one of pop music’s most beloved anthems. Critics argue the original’s message of resilience and anti-violence was at odds with the new lyrical direction.

Online commentators have been especially vocal about the legal and cultural implications of sampling such a monumental song without clearance. One social media user wrote, “Whoever cleared the ‘Beat It’ sample for Sexyy Red, I hope they know they not seeing heaven.” Another declared, “MJ rolling in his grave.”

As of this writing, there’s no confirmation Sexyy Red plans to release a studio version — nor has there been any public indication of formal legal action beyond the estate’s statement. The rapper herself has remained quiet on the matter, leaving many to speculate whether the video was meant as a joke, a tease, or an early preview for official music.

We about to have a MJ movie of the year and she wanna come with this BS! If she don’t sit down and go play with somebody else legacy.

— Brydell Cocky ⓥ (@brydellcocky) February 12, 2026

The Michael Jackson estate is known for strictly controlling rights to Jackson’s catalog, and any unauthorized usage could invite legal action or takedown requests. Fans and industry observers will be watching closely to see whether this situation escalates into a formal dispute or settles quietly.